Obituary of Kenneth N. Croucher

Mr. Kenneth N. Croucher, 92, of Peck Lake, New York died peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, September 5, 2021, following a brief illness.  Born in Gloversville, NY on March 20, 1929, he was the son of the late Gordon and Olive Williams Croucher. 

Ken was an outstanding athlete and outdoorsman all his life.  He particularly loved to ski, hunt, hike, and golf. He served proudly in the United States Army from 1951 until 1953.  Ken returned to Gloversville, where he owned and operated Croucher’s Appliance Service.  He was also a carpenter, builder, plumber, and electrician.  He was also active with the YMCA and was instrumental in their swim team records in the early 60's.

In the mid-1970s, Ken, along with his close friend and business partner John Callahan, attempted to save Silver Bells Mountain in Wells, New York. They operated the mountain for three years, teaching a good number of individuals and families how to ski. Ken was also active with the National Ski Patrol for over 50 years. An avid hunter and original member of the Pinnacle Ridge Runners, he hunted his whole life. He was also a ski mountain guide in Utah and a talented artist who enjoyed painting winter scenes.  

His greatest joy was being surrounded by his family and close friends.  He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.  

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Arden Wicksell Croucher; his son, Shawn Croucher and his wife Deanna; three grandchildren, Steven Croucher and his wife Joanna, Michelle Cobler and her husband David, and Wesley Croucher and his fiancé Annika Boulet. He is also survived by one great grandson, Jackson Cobler, of York, PA.

He was predeceased by his brother, Richard.  

An informal Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, September 10, 2021, from 4 to 7 PM at the Croucher residence, 461 North Shore Road, Peck Lake, Gloversville, NY 12078.  All are invited to attend.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the National Ski Patrol, 133 S. Van Gordon Street, Suite 100, Lakewood, CO 80228 or online https://nspserves.org/donate  

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the care of Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville.  Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com